15 Memorable African American Olympic Moments

07/25/2012 11:43 am ET
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Updated
Jul 29, 2012

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Every four years we get to watch our country's celebrated athletes compete against the best in the world for the glory, the gold, and a place in the record books. During each Olympic Games we huddle around our TV's anxiously waiting to see who will be this year's star competitors.

Among these champions we are always excited to see outstanding black athletes from around the world dominating in their respective events. African Americans like Alice Coachman, John Taylor, and Tommie Smith have triumphed against adversity and become heroes of both the black community and the world of sports.

In celebration of this year's Olympics here are 15 memorable moments from the Games that we will never forget.

What are your favorite Olympic moments?

15 Memorable African American Olympic Moments

15 Memorable African American Olympic Moments

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Gail Devers Overcomes Illness (1992)

After overcoming Graves' disease in 1990 Devers won gold with a photo finish in the 100 meter dash at the 1992 Games in Barcelona.